Carl Weathers: A legacy beyond Apollo Creed
From unknown actor to Hollywood icon
Carl Weathers was just another hopeful actor when he auditioned for a role that would change his life forever. During the audition, he was paired with a mumbling screenwriter, and in a moment of frustration, Weathers blurted out, “If you get me a real actor, I could do a lot better.” Little did he know, the screenwriter was none other than Sylvester Stallone, who would later cast him as Apollo Creed in the iconic Rocky series.
Stallone, reflecting on Weathers’ impact, said, “He showed up at the eleventh hour with all the attributes: the body, the skill, the soul, and the acting chops. I never could have accomplished what we did with Rocky without him. He was magic.”
The man behind Apollo Creed
Weathers’ portrayal of Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky films cemented his place in cinematic history. His performance was so compelling that it led to him being honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on August 29. But Weathers was much more than Apollo Creed. He was an action star in Predator, a comedic talent in Happy Gilmore, and a director for The Mandalorian.
A versatile talent
Weathers’ versatility extended beyond acting. He co-wrote his first television drama and directed episodes of popular shows like Silk Stalkings, The Last O.G., and Chicago Med. His portrayal of Greef Karga in The Mandalorian even earned him an Emmy nomination.
A humble presence on and off the screen
Weathers was known for his humility and commanding presence. David Cross, who worked with him on Arrested Development, described him as “a cool dude, and there’s nothing Hollywood about him at all.” CCH Pounder, who played his wife on the sitcom Brothers, added, “Carl always had command of the room but was very humble about it.”
Michael Strahan, who played Weathers’ son in Brothers, recalled, “He didn’t have an ego and could take a joke, which loosened everyone else up. He wanted the challenge as an actor, but he was there to play. He always came in with joy.”
The eye of the tiger
Weathers’ success was driven by his determination and ambition. Christine Kludjian, his partner for the last decade, noted his “uncanny ability to be hyperfocused, to be so quiet in the mind while he focused on what was in front of him.” This trait, along with his emphasis on humor and trust, contributed to his career success.
From football to Hollywood
Born in New Orleans, Weathers grew up in the segregated South. He discovered football and earned a scholarship to a prestigious Catholic school, eventually playing as a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders. Despite his success in sports, Weathers never lost sight of his true passion: acting.
He landed his first speaking part on an episode of Good Times, impressing his co-stars with his versatility and professionalism. A year later, he became a household name with Rocky.
A new chapter in comedy and directing
By the 1990s, Weathers was ready for new challenges. He shifted gears to tackle comedic roles, earning praise from co-stars like Adam Sandler, who described him as “built like a truck, cool as hell, and handsome as hell.” Weathers’ comedic success stemmed from his ability to play roles with subtlety, understanding that the humor was already inherent in the script.
Around the same time, Weathers began directing, bringing his unique perspective as an actor to his new role. He believed in being as present as a cat watching a fish in a bowl, a philosophy he shared with students during his Masters Classes.
A lasting legacy
Weathers continued to expand his horizons, developing a television series about a Black FBI agent in the Pacific Northwest. His collaborator, Jason Wilborn, noted that Weathers had a lot to say about being Black in America, patriotism, and legacy.
Four days before Weathers’ death, they reached an agreement to produce the series, ensuring that his voice would continue to be heard.
A fitting tribute
Christine Kludjian, reflecting on their partnership, said, “I lost a romantic partner and life adventurer but also an artistic collaborator. The loss is profound.” Despite the shock of his passing, she takes comfort in knowing that Weathers was genuinely excited about receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Event details
What: Carl Weathers receives a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
When: Aug. 29, 11:30 a.m.
Where: 7076 Hollywood Blvd.
Web: walkoffame.com
For more information on Carl Weathers’ iconic roles, check out the trailers for Rocky, Predator, and Happy Gilmore.